In active stage, cervix must dilate at least ______ cm per hour.

• A. 0.5-1 cm per hour
• B. 1-2 cm per hour
• C. 2-3 cm per hour
• D. 3-4 cm per hour

Answer: (B)

In active labor, progress is judged by how quickly the cervix dilates per hour. A rate of about 1 cm per hour is the typical minimum expected, and many guidelines lump 1–2 cm per hour as a common range to reflect normal variation among women. This threshold helps distinguish adequate progress from protracted labor or arrest. So the best choice gives a range that includes the commonly cited minimum and allowances for normal variation. Rates slower than about 1 cm/hour suggest slower progress and potential dystocia, while much faster rates aren’t required to meet the minimum standard.